If you work a lot, like most of us do, then you must worry about what your pup does while are are gone all day. You worry about if he is getting into trouble or breaking anything. Well, i have come up with 4 things you can do to keep him occupied while you are away at work:
First, you will need to give your pet something active to do. They can’t sleep all day, they can’t bark all day, and they certainly can’t get into trouble all day (or can they?). A fantastic option to consider is buying your dog interactive toys. Some examples are toys that are filled with treats that give them out sporadically. This will give your pup something to pay attention to, and it will also keep him on his toes. Another great interactive product is an automated bouncy ball that moves spontaneously and unpredictably. This will help Fido spend some of his energy, as well as affording him with an automatic playmate (pun not intended). Some are even made with ridges that will help clean your doggies’ teeth simultaneously as they play and chase the ball!
If you have a backyard, consider installing a doggy door. This way, Fido will be able to go in and out as he pleases, and he can chase after squirrels and get some fresh air. He can also relieve himself when the need arises, and so he will be more relaxed and comfortable throughout the day.
If you do not have a backyard, consider engaging the services of a dog walker once or twice a day. Dogs need human contact, and they love going for a walk in the middle of the day. To them, they are hanging out with a pal or engaging in fun social activities, as well as getting a bit of exercise. Don’t worry though; your pup will still be just as excited and happy to see you when you come home, even if they are seeing someone else.
Another option is to call your home while you are away at work and “talk” to Fido over the answering machine. Your dog will perk up when he hears your voice, and though you aren’t there, he will appreciate hearing from you…after all, it gets him off the couch and gives him something to do.
Weekends are fantastic, but when Monday rolls around, you’re not the only one who sighs with sadness. Fido doesn’t like seeing you go, and he gets bored when he is at home alone all day. Consider the options that best work for you and your pet as you endeavor to keep him happy and out of trouble while you are away. Your precious pet will thank you for it!
Keep him contained with Dog Crates and Dog Gates.
The number one health problem facing dogs today is obesity. Recent research shows that approximately 25% of all dogs are obese. This can be a very dangerous to a dogs well being and will dramatically decrease its life span.
Learning to recognize obesity in dogs is essential in your job as the primary caretaker of your pet. If your dog weighs more than approximately twenty percent of their target body weight, they are most likely considered obese. Just like humans, weight gain occurs when a dog consumes more calories than they burn off with exercise. It can be difficult for owners to notice if their dog is gaining weight because it is a gradual process that takes time. A good test to tell whether or not your dog is overweight or obese is to do the rib test. Simply place your hands on you dog’s rib cage, and if you can easily feel their ribs then they are most likely within their ideal weight. If you have difficulty feeling their ribs or cannot feel them at all, then your dog is more than likely overweight or obese.
If you feel that your dog may be overweight or obese, contact your veterinarian to discuss possible weight loss programs for your dog. Do not begin a weight loss plan for your dog on your own; dogs are built differently than humans, and they require slightly different weight loss methods.
Most veterinarians will focus on your dog’s calorie intake. Like humans, if dogs consume more calories than they use, their bodies store it as fat. Dogs do need fat and protein in their diet, so simply buying a “fat-free” doggie food will not do the trick (not mention they shouldn’t even exist). Most veterinarians will recommend keeping your dog on their same food brand, though they will recommend you either feed your dog one less meal (if you feed them multiple times throughout the day) or simply decrease the size of their food scoop, thus giving them less food. You can also install an in-ground dog fence and a doggie door then let him ( or her) get exercise by running around safely in your yard.
If you are thinking about losing some extra weight yourself and want to include your dog in your exercise plan (i.e. walking or jogging), be sure to discuss your idea with your vet. Just like humans, dogs that are overweight and out of shape cannot immediately hop up and run for two miles without putting themselves at risk. When you talk to your dog’s vet, you will be able to determine how much your pet will be able to handle, and you will receive advice on what is the best pace and distance for you and your dog to start out with.
Just like humans, obesity can cause serious health problems in dogs; clogged arteries, pressure on joints and bones, and even respiratory problems. Be aware of your pet’s weight, and if you are concerned, see your veterinarian. They will help you decide what is best for your dog, and you will be able to work out an effective plan that will keep your dog happy and healthy!
Whats up Bloggers!!
Just a few links that you should check out and, as the title suggests, ponder on. 
http://www.hsus.org/ or Do whats Right
Many more in depth posts to come soon
